Nearby Theaters

Opening May 28, 1892 the Opera House has been in continous operation except for one week in 1936 to install true sound projectors (optical)and move the projection booth from the balcony to above the mezzaine, behind the balcony.

Designed by H.C. Lindsay of Zanesville, Ohio, the second floor was office space, the third floor, a grand ballroom. The building has a tower 108' high that was to include a clock that was never installed. The stage floor is ‘raked’ at three degrees to allow audiences in the front row to see the performers feet.

Began showing movies in 1913. Synchronized 78rpm records with film, talkies were shown between 1930 and 1936. The theatre was the first building in McConnelsville to be lit with electric light (in-house generator). Unfortunately it proved to be unreliable and gas fictures replaced the electric lights. The old gas fictures are still in use, converted to electricity.

Currently the theatre has a mix of first run movies and live performances.

Like many independent theaters the Opera House is raising money through donations for a digital projection system. The community has rallied with fundraisers like BBQ’s, talent show at the theater, Ohio Valley Opry benefit show, individual contributions. The theater has a very large screen, and needs to raise $70K. They have a way to go, but should make it by the end of the year. This will enable the venue to continue showing 1st run movies, as well as live presentations.

The Opera House in McConnelsville is listed in the 1897-98 edition of the Julius Cahn Official Theatrical Guide. Managed by Wiseman & Watson, 655 seats, electric illuminaiton, located on ground floor. The proscenium opening was 28' wide X 30' high, and the stage was 34 feet deep. Tickets: 25 cents to 50 cents. 8 musicians in the house orchestra. Newspapers, Herald, Democrat. Hotels for show folk: Franklin, Kennebec, Valley. The 1897 population was 3,500.